Cigarette sales have increased in the last quarter. ITC has reported an increase of 18% in revenues in the period from Oct 1st to Dec 31st, 2008. Incidentally, the ban on smoking in public places came into effect from Oct 2nd. The ban seems to have boosted the sales.

Another piece of cheerful news. Liquor sales posted a growth of 18-20% in 2008, bucking the general trend and proving that “Boom or gloom, anytime is a good time for the booze business”.